Death Is a Number
Death Is a Number

Movie spotlight

Death Is a Number

1951
Movie
50 min
English

A man relates the story of his friend, racing driver John Bridgnorth, whose death may have been the final act of an ancient family curse.

Insights

IMDb6.1/10
Director: William F. ClaxtonGenres: Crime, Film-Noir, Mystery, Thriller

Plot Summary

A former detective turned private investigator is hired by a desperate woman to find her missing husband, who she believes has been murdered. As he delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a complex web of deceit, blackmail, and betrayal, all while confronting his own past demons. The investigation leads him through the shadowy underbelly of the city, encountering dangerous characters and facing increasing peril.

Critical Reception

Death Is a Number is a relatively obscure entry in the film noir genre, often overlooked but appreciated by aficionados for its taut pacing and atmospheric storytelling. While not a critical darling upon release, it has gained a cult following for its gritty portrayal of its characters and its classic noir themes.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its effective atmosphere and suspenseful plot.

  • Noted for a solid performance by John Ireland in a classic noir role.

  • Considered a well-crafted, albeit lesser-known, example of the genre.

Google audience: Information on specific Google user reviews for this older film is not readily available.

Fun Fact

The film's director, William F. Claxton, later became a prolific television director, helming episodes for popular shows like 'Bonanza', 'Star Trek', and 'The Six Million Dollar Man'.

AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources

My Review